Campsites, cultural venues, cellar doors, heritages sites and other tourism attractions and destinations will be given a boost with the Australian Government announcing $8.5 million today in TQUAL tourism grants to 117 projects across Australia.
Announcing the TQUAL Grants: Tourism Quality Projects at Majura Winery in Canberra today, Minister for Tourism, Martin Ferguson AM MP said the grants will help to lift the quality and variety of Australia’s tourism experiences.
“Most of the grants are in regional Australia where tourism is an important economic driver – in fact 46 cents of every tourism dollar is spent in regional Australia,” Minister Ferguson said.
“The challenge for regional tourism destinations is in attracting increasingly time poor visitors out of the gateway cities. These grants will help better position those businesses and organisations who are looking to expand, modify or diversify their product or service to be even more appealing for city dwellers and international visitors.
“As a part of the National Long Term Tourism Strategy, the TQUAL Grants help address the lack of investment in tourism which is more pronounced in regional Australia.
“By providing matching funding to investors, the Australian Government is not only seeking to address the market failure but support the almost one million Australians directly and indirectly employed in the $34 billion tourism industry.”
The Minister Assisting on Tourism, Senator Nick Sherry, said TQUAL Grants: Tourism Quality Projects gave travellers more reasons to see even more of Australia.
“People will keep coming back if they know they’re getting better and fresher attractions, products and services,” Senator Sherry said.
“TQUAL Grants create greater incentive for tourism operators to invest and that’s especially important in regional economies.
“New investment in just one tourism project can generate flow-on benefits to thousands of small businesses, whether they’re directly involved in the industry or part of the wider business community.
“This latest $8.5 million Government funding boost is in effect at least $17 million when the required dollar-for-dollar matching investment from tourism operators is taken into account,” Minister Sherry said.
Organisation | Project Description | Grant | |
Viva Investments | Refurbishment of the ‘The Entrance Backpackers’ accommodation located in The Entrance Town Centre. The Entrance Backpackers will bring a new level of budget accommodation to the area, filling a current void in the market. The Entrance Backpackers will bring substantial economic benefit to the local region and boost international visitor numbers. | $110,000 | |
Four Winds Vineyard Services | Construction of a cellar door building at the Four Winds Vineyard near Murrumbateman. Utilising innovative green construction and operating practices to create a sustainable attraction, the project will meet the need of the growing number of visitors demanding sustainable tourist attractions in the area. | $110,000 | |
The Big Banana | Upgrade to the infrastructure, amenities and guest experience of the Water Park attraction based within the Big Banana Tourism Complex at Coffs Harbour. It is envisaged the upgrade will further establish the Big Banana as a destination showcase and assist with increasing visitation to the region by providing a more diverse modern tourist attraction. | $110,000 | |
Coonabarabran Telescope | Relocate and refurbish the 40″ telescope from Siding Spring Observatory to “Milroy” west of Coonabarabran in NSW. This project will establish a new observatory providing astronomy tourists with amateur’s access to the largest publicly accessible telescope in the Southern Hemisphere. | $110,000 | |
House with No Steps | Construction of infrastructure and signage for the Farm Gate Tractor Tour near Ballina NSW. A 30 minute tractor ride tour over the 172 acre property will be a major tourist drawcard, as a unique Australian experience, encompassing history, farming and food – the first of its kind in the region. It will also support disability employment activities with 89 employees with a disability supporting the sites operations. | $110,000 | |
Untamed Group | Development of a China Ready handbook, information workshop and training material. This project will not only equip tourism operators with the skills required to become Chinese Ready, but it will also create a direct path to market through a promotional support and accreditation program. | $110,000 | |
Billabong Koala & Wildlife Park | Construction of a crocodile exhibit at the Billabong Koala & Wildlife Park, Port Macquarie. This project is aimed at further engaging visitors, encouraging them to spend the whole day exploring the Park and the surrounding region. | $110,000 | |
Silverback Properties as trustee for Terri Irwin Family Trust | Construction of Stage 1 of the ‘Africa at Australia Zoo’ exhibit, Beerwah. This project will have a significant impact on tourism in Australia, increasing visitors and supporting the local economy at a time when Queensland needs it the most. | $110,000 | |
North Stradbroke Enterprises
| Construction of two eco-accommodation structures at Amity Point on North Stradbroke Island. The project will incorporate cutting edge sustainability features in relation to energy efficiency, building materials, water consumption and waste management. These design prototypes will be tested and evaluated for use in other Holiday Parks on North Stradbroke Island. | $110,000 | |
Gold Coast City Council | Provision of research services to investigate 2 possible dive wreck sites on the Gold Coast. Initial research has identified that a dedicated dive attraction would attract visitors, encourage repeat visitation and further enhance the Gold Coast’s image as a vibrant, world-class and unique destination. | $110,000 | |
National Park | Interior modernisation of 60 rooms in O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat an iconic eco-tourism destination for 85 years on the Gold coast hinterland. The funding will be used to support a project that is integral to tourism industry development on the Gold Coast and which will stimulate private sector investment. | $110,000 | |
Morton Island Ferries | Supply and construction of tent accommodation at Moreton Island. The project will provide guests with the opportunity to experience Moreton Island, which is listed on the Australia Heritage Register and has over 98% of the island designated as a National Park. | $110,000 | |
Habitat Dome as trustee for Cairns Wildlife Dome Trust | Design, engineering and construction of additional infrastructure at Cairns ZOOm adventure course inside the Cairns Wildlife Dome Zoo. The project will provide infrastructure required within the existing building for Cairns ZOOm to be the only indoor, day/night adventure experience in Queensland which will appeal to local, domestic and international markets. | $110,000 | |
Maranoa Regional Council | Upgrade of the Great Artesian Spa Hot Spring pools to minimise energy needs and allow for better use of resources in the management and maintenance of this facility. The project would result in with a high quality, safe upgrade of a popular tourist attraction to the benefit of the Mitchell area. | $110,000 | |
Stephen Ross Landscaping as trustee for Ross Family Trust | Construction of a eco-tourism certified camp beside World Heritage Lamington National Park. The project will enhance and improves supply of genuinely sustainable high-quality tourism accommodation in a unique natural environment, supports economic growth and bolsters the region’s tourism reputation. | $110,000 | |
Cobbold Gorge tours | Refurbishment of accommodation on Robin Hood Station, Far North Queensland. This project will assist in reducing the facility’s carbon footprint in addition to lifting service delivery to both international and domestic standards. | $110,000 | |
Dreamworld | Feasibility study examining options to overlay existing tourism products at Dreamworld, with awareness and education about the history and contribution of Indigenous people on the Gold Coast. The project aligns the development of Indigenous tourism with objectives under the National Long Term Tourism Strategy, will add to the quality and diversity of tourism experiences on the Gold Coast and will support Indigenous employment and businesses. | $110,000 | |
Undaval | Purchase and installation of four Pioneers Huts at Undara Experience located in the Gulf Savannah region of Tropical North Queensland. These huts will increase the capacity of Undara Experience and will also help tour operators and retailers to meet the demand for outback style accommodation. | $110,000 | |
Nuriootpa Vine Inn Hotel Motel | Refurbishment of 18 rooms at the community owned Vine Inn (Vine Court Barossa). A direct outcome will be development of improved corporate packages and local experiential tours in conjunction with other local attraction providers e.g. wineries & sporting events. | $110,000 | |
Gemtree Vineyards | Construction of an environmentally sustainable cellar door facility at Gemtree Vineyard, McLaren Flat. The Cellar Door will blend with Gemtree Vineyards’s Biodynamic farming program and existing Wetlands Walking Eco Trail and will be the first of its type in the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu region of South Australia. This project will not only add a new visitor experience to the wine region but also allow for the education of sustainable building practices. | $110,000 | |
Auora Ozone Hotel | Refurbishment of 12 hotel rooms on South Australia’s Kangaroo Island. This project will help meet the strong demand for 4 star accommodation on the island. | $110,000 | |
Port Lincoln Fresh Fish Company | Upgrade and extension at Port Lincoln Fresh Fish Company on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula. This project will deliver improve the seafood experience on offer and will provide a greater capacity to showcase a wider range of product. The new space will double the visitor capacity and will cater for tour greetings and tastings, cooking demonstrations and seafood cooking classes. | $110,000 | |
Sticky Rice Cooking School | Design and construction of three self contained Asian villas at the Sticky Rice Cooking School in the Adelaide Hills. The accommodation will allow for food and accommodation packages and will provide a unique accommodation option for the region. | $110,000 | |
The Wicked Cheese Company | Construction of a cheesery and local produce tasting house in historic Richmond in the surrounding Hobart region. The facility will comprise of maturing and making/demonstration rooms, a tasting area for cheese and other local produce, an interpretative display and an area for visitors to enjoy light meals. The project will complement the existing Coal Valley wine trail adding a new and unique visitor experience for the region. | $110,000 | |
Bretos Project Management | Installation of an architecturally-designed Omnipod atop a 9-story office building in the centre of Hobart. This unique accommodation concept will be known as Avalon City Retreat and will be the ultimate in sustainable accommodation. This project will also be a prototype for environmentally friendly, sustainable and portable accommodation that tourism operators from around Australia can view and adapt to their own tourism environments. | $110,000 | |
Anvers Confectionery | Construction of a multi-purpose conservatory at the House of Anvers in North West Tasmania. The House of Anvers offers a total chocolate experience and this project will enable more visitors to enjoy this experience and also new experiences. This project aims to increase the length of visitor stays in the region. | $110,000 | |
Westminster 1257 Pty. . | Addition of four architecturally designed and accessible studios on Tasmania’s Bruny Island. This project will also include an accessible interpretational boardwalk and wildlife viewing platform. This project will help to meet the demand for quality accommodation on the island but also offers accessible accommodation and activities. | $110,000 | |
Stefano Lubiana Wines | Development of interpretative displays and activities at Stefano Lubiana Wines, Derwent Valley, Tasmania. This project will highlight the site’s biodynamic credentials and will complement the development of a purpose-built tasting and dining facility that will demonstrate sustainable production methods. This project will also allow for local strategic partnerships in the are of ‘clean and green’ experiences. | $110,000 | |
Velo Wines | Construction of a restaurant and redevelopment of the cellar door area at Velo Wines in Tasmania’s Launceston and Tamar Valley region. This project provides the opportunity to showcase local produce in an ambient setting and will improve the visitor experience at the winery. | $110,000 | |
Phillip Island Chocolate Experience | Extension and installation of custom designed exhibits at Pannys Amazing World of Chocolate on Philip Island in Victoria. This project will cater for increasing demand at the attraction particularly from international visitors, and enables the expansion of the tourism experience offered. | $110,000 | |
Bendigo’s Park Lane Holiday Park | Construction of an Indoor Children’s & Youth Activity Centre at the Bendigo Park Lane Holiday Park. The project will focus on increasing occupancy in the peak times shoulder periods with an all weather indoor play centre that drives attraction based growth within the industry. | $110,000 | |
Leora | Construction of walking trails, board walks and viewing platforms to complement and protect remnant forest along with existing and proposed wetlands within the Wild Dog Winery in Victoria’s Gippsland region. The project will provide a nature-based activity for visitors that will add another dimension to the activities on offer at the winery and in the region. | $110,000 | |
Ballarat Wildlife and Reptile Park | Construction of the Crocodile Billabong Experience and Conservation Centre in Ballarat. The Centre will house large freshwater crocodiles and allow educational and information sessions to be held at the Ballarat Wildlife and Reptile Park in the Goldfields region of Victoria. This project will provide an educational resource, and creating a new tourist opportunity in the region. | $110,000 | |
Universal Logic | Construction of a hospitality space at Bright Brewery in Victoria’s High Country. This project will provide much needed space to cater for the growth in numbers of tourists visiting the brewery and will establish the brewery as an all weather attraction for Bright. In addition, the project will see the expansion of Bright Brewery’s existing edu-tourism experiences. | $110,000 | |
Spring Spur | Construction of a lounge and accommodation facility at Bogong Horseback Adventures’ Spring Spur Stables in Victoria’s High Country. This project will open the horseback experience to new markets and will help to grow the business and in turn, the regions tourism industry | $110,000 | |
Ferngrove Vineyards | Provide heritage interpretation and innovative technology to the Ferngrove’s Killerby cellar door. This project will add to the microbrewery-restaurant complex enhancing the visitor experience to this region | $110,000 | |
Shire of Leonora | Restoration of a boarding house and development of visitor facilities in the historic mining and ghost town of Gwalia in Western Australia’s Golden Outback region. This project enables the final restoration of the Mrs Patroni’s Boarding House, which is an integral part of the township, and will also see the development of an information hub alongside the house as a starting point for tours of the area. | $110,000 | |
Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association | Renovation of the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse in Western Australia’s South West region. The project will complete the internal works for Cottage Two at the lighthouse and will work to showcase the diverse heritage and cultural values of the site. The further development of tourism facilities at the lighthouse will help to cater to and attract more visitors. | $110,000 | |
Pet Porpoise Pool | Production of a ‘Conceptual Development Approval’ of the Pet Porpoise Pool ‘Master Plan’, Coffs Harbour. The project will enable the multi award winning park to increase visitation to the park and the region, ultimately creating more jobs through direct and indirect employment, increasing the economic value in our region’s economy. | $108,640 | |
Kroombit Park | Installation of an eco-friendly waste management system at Kroombit Park – Lochenbar Station, Biloela. The project will accommodate the current and future needs of the tourist park and ensure the pristine condition of the adjacent National Park. | $107,410 | |
Oz Ski Resort | Construction of infrastructure for a water ski attraction at Oz Ski Resort, Coolum Quanda Park Water Resource. The facility will provide a new, innovative sport and recreation tourist destination, which will attract more visitors to the Sunshine Coast, and can host state, national and international water ski competitions. | $107,291 | |
Simon Currant & Associates | Construction of an Education/interpretation Centre within Sleeping Water Lodge at Lake St Clair in Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain National Park. The Sleeping Water Lodge Education/Interpretation Centre will strengthen Tasmania’s offering of wilderness experiences and open it up to new markets of high end Education Tourism. | $100,950 | |
Curtin Raiser | Installation of infrastructure for camping facilities on the bank of the Darling River at Wilcannia. This project is Stage 1 of the “Warrawong on the Darling” tourism venture. This project will provide facilities to encourage large numbers of tourists currently travelling through Wilcannia to stay overnight in the area. | $100,000 | |
Fishabout Tours | Development of a recreational fishing handbook, web and phone app for operators, with translation into five languages as part of the development of the Fishabout Australia network. A web and mobile phone application will also be developed as part of the project. This project will deliver innovative, improved fishing products that will increase the availability and depth of information about current offerings and is aimed at enhancing Australia’s reputation as a fishing destination. | $100,000 | |
The City of Newcastle | Development of interactive multi media applications and sites revealing the evolving essence of the City of Newcastle. The project will combine the audio-visual experience with a regular loop walk linking the City Centre with other tourist sites. | $100,000 | |
World Expeditions | Creation of semi-permanent campsites at 3 select locations along the Larapinta Trail. Funding will also support engagement of the traditional owners and development of economic opportunities for indigenous people. Funding will also provide for innovative design and construction, ensuring low-impact tourism as well as maximising the amenity and attraction to the global trekking market. | $100,000 | |
Toowoomba and Golden West Regional Tourist Association | Implementation of an agritourism business development program in the South East Queensland Country (SEQC) region, encompassing South Burnett, Toowoomba and Southern Downs/Granite Belt. This project will allow new agritourism experiences to emerge and help expose the regions strengths – food, wine and country to visitors and locals alike. | $100,000 | |
Taming the Dragon | Addition of a white lion exhibit and entry area at Mansfield Zoo in Victoria’s High Country region. This project will give Victoria its first white lions and add more hands on experiences to the zoo’s offering. | $100,000 | |
Melbourne Underwater World | Construction and fit out of a shipwreck exhibit at Melbourne Aquarium. Using the latest technology and conservation practices, the project will separate the 2.2 million litre Oceanarium into two different areas, allowing the opportunity to exhibit new and varied animals not ever seen before in Australian aquaria. This will strengthen the Aquarium’s tourism offering, and in turn, Melbourne’s tourism offering. | $100,000 | |
North East Victoria Tourism Inc. | Construction of visitor infrastructure and camping facilities along the Bogong Alpine Way at the Falls-Hotham Alpine Crossing in the Australian Alps National Landscape area. This project provides key visitor facilities for the Bogong Cluster. | $100,000 | |
Magheragall Nominees | Upgrades to the Lavers Hill Roadhouse and Caravan Park. The project will be the first step to creating an integrated hub servicing the regional and tourism needs including the development of the Tavern to provide a local food and beverage experience. | $100,000 | |
Milawa Cheese Company | Construction of a culinary classroom for artisan baking, cheese making and specialist cooking classes at the Milawa Cheese Factory Bakery Restaurant complex. This project will help to showcase local produce to visitors and will also allow for an increase in production of artisanal sour dough bread. This increased production allows for the development of local labour and skills and will create additional jobs in the bakery, tourism and regional transport sectors. | $100,000 | |
Evedon Park Bush Resort | Construction of a new retail facility and upgrade of the restaurant and reception area at Evedon Park Bush Resort in Western Australia’s South West region. The project will raise the level of quality of the resort and will help to attract new visitors, which will support other local businesses in the Ferguson Valley region. | $100,000 | |
Metalic Investment | Purchase and installation of ensuite bedrooms and a shared kitchen at the Midland Caravan Park at Swan. This project will provide an example of the latest principles of environmental sustainability and 7 star energy efficiency rating while providing high quality budget accommodation for tourists visiting the City of Swan attending local events, attractions and sightseeing. | $100,000 | |
Indian Ocean Rock Lobster | Redevelopment of the foreshore of the rock lobster processing factory in Cervantes in Western Australia’s Coral Coast region. This project will deliver an iconic waterfront seafood restaurant under the “Lobster Shack” brand that showcase Western Australia’s world famous Rock Lobster and other specialty produce from the region. | $100,000 | |
Yugambeh Museum Language and Heritage Research Centre | Feasibility study on the translation of cultural elements from the Yugambeh Aboriginal language region of south east Queensland (Gold Coast, Logan, Scenic Rim) into new tourism products. The project has a number of outcomes including developing cultural competency and education services for tourism operators, interaction with the Yugambeh Aboriginal Exhibition & Training Centre at Beenleigh (opening June 2011) and create a resource titled Aboriginal Tourism Action Strategy for the Yugambeh Region. | $88,000 | |
Bathurst Goldfields | Development of meeting and conference facilities at Bathurst Goldfields educational facility. Through securing increased visitation and offering new meeting and conferencing facilities this initiative will bring much needed economic and employment outcomes whilst attracting new domestic and international markets. | $85,000 | |
Scott Canty & Sons | Construction of key facilities (kiosk and amenities block) for the proposed Multi Sport Park in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast region. This recreational park will cater for dirt bikes, mountain bikes and 4×4 vehicles, and will also offer camping facilities. This project enables the recreational park to service visitors to the attraction. | $85,000 | |
Hay Shire Council | Construction of artwork, sculptures and interpretive panels at the Bidgee Riverside Cultural Trail, Hay. The project supports regional themes associated with The Long Paddock Touring Route and Riverina Regional Tourism’s Murrumbidgee Access Trail. | $82,500 | |
Shire of Gnowangerup | Construction of a Travel Stop for short stay accommodation in Gnowangerup. The project will become a central hub location for the hidden Treasures Drive Trail and allow travellers to stay in Gnowangerup and travel out into the Hidden Treasures for day trips. | $73,150 | |
A Maze’N Things | Completion of a feasibility study, strategic plan and scoping study for the proposed Heritage Brew House and Traditional Cheese Factory on Victoria’s Phillip Island. The project will also involve the development of architectural, building and landscaping plans and will work to establish the viability of the proposal. The proposed project would be a major addition to the tourism landscape of the island and this project helps to make it a reality. | $71,500 | |
Wirraway Homestead | Construction of an accommodation and training centre for 20 Outdoor Recreation students at Wirraway Homestead on South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula. Wirraway provides on the job training for students as instructors/guides in horse riding, climbing, archery, and ropes courses. This project improves Wirraway’s training capability and importantly will allow for students to stay onsite. | $66,350 | |
Harbourside Helicopters | Feasibility study to investigate the implementation of scenic helicopter tours to regional NSW from Sydney’s CBD. It is envisaged the project will deliver new experiences to high-yielding visitors wishing to visit regional New South Wales including the Hunter Valley, Mudgee, Bowral, Bathurst, and Dubbo. | $65,400 | |
d’Arenberg | Development of interactive displays at d’Arenberg in South Australia’s Barossa region. Through this interface, visitors will be able to have a simulated tasting with a winemaker and also a wine blending experience. | $62,486 | |
Livingstone Family Trust | Construction of a kitchen and new tasting area at Harcourt Valley Vineyards. This infrastructure will also allow catering for functions, weddings and events. A kitchen focusing on regional foods will encourage people to come to our region as currently there is a lack of such infrastructure in the local area | $62,072 | |
The Maze | Feasibility study into the commercial viability of ‘Outback Splash’ at The Maze Family Fun Park. This project will benefit the tourism community in our region by providing other local operators with reliable data on visitor numbers, trends, and habits within our region and in the event that the proposed water park becomes a reality, our region will receive all the on flow benefits associated with a major tourism drawcard. We believe that has the potential to become one of Western Australia’s flagship attractions and an icon in Western Australian Tourism. | $61,750 | |
Fraser Coast Regional Council | Development of a smart phone application and physical interpretive signage on The “Fraser Coast Discovery Trails” project. The project will support and encourage regional tourism industry growth by providing a leading solution and consumer product that maximises online marketing and distribution investment. | $60,000 | |
Bungaree Station | Development of an interactive trail around Bungaree Station’s historic complex in South Australia’s Clare Valley region. This project will add to the variety of tourism product available for international visitors through to school groups in the area. | $60,000 | |
National Trust of Australia (Victoria) | Development of an interpretation plan and repairs to wiring and lighting in preparation for new displays at the Old Melbourne Gaol. This project aims to re-interpret the site to provide an exciting and engaging heritage experience that explored the severity of imprisonment and punishment regimes in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. This project is an important step in revitalising this Melbourne attraction. | $60,000 | |
Leknarf | Construction of Infrastructure at the Fraser Coast Tourist Park including swimming pool and slide for children, shade structure, landscaping and the installation of a covered children’s playground. Amenities blocks and the laundry will also be refurbished to reflect the raised standard of facilities. | $59,932 | |
Geographe Bay Tourism Association | Replacement of light and sound facilities with state-of-the-art LED lamps and audio capabilities in the Ngilgi Cave in Western Australia’s South West region. This project will work to minimise environmental impacts on the fragile karst system and will also reduce the growth of Lampenflora (algal) in the cave. T | $58,000 | |
Sapphire Coast Tourism | Development of heritage information, interactive web page, maps, interpretive displays and signage to promote heritage experiences on the Sapphire Coast. The project will familiarise the community on how to use and update the heritage material and stories through social media tools and demonstrate how they can be used to deliver heritage stories to the visitor. | $50,000 | |
RiverSmart Australia | Development of a master plan for a Wetland Education and Cultural Centre (WECC) in the Macquarie Marshes. The development of a Master Plan will involve significant community consultation and will deliver ecological, built, educational, tourism and financial details for a WECC. It is envisaged the WECC will provide positive impacts to regional visitation, employment and economic bottom lines. | $50,000 | |
Coonamble Shire Council | Production of technical, design and planning documents for the Coonamble Eco Spa and Caravan Park project. The project will bring the Eco Spa to the point of being ‘investor ready’. There is potential for the Eco Spa to attract day trips from people visiting the surrounding region, particularly the Warrumbungle National Park and Lightning Ridge, adding to the regional offering and contributing to longer stays. | $50,000 | |
Katherine Town Council | Design and construction of new exhibits at Katherine Museum. These important historical stories will enhance visitors understanding of Northern Australia, encourage them to stay longer and to explore the regions more remote areas. | $50,000 | |
Grevon as Trustee for Culell Family Trust | Construction of a giraffe/zebra complex and feeding area at Halls Gap Zoo in Victoria’s Central Highlands region. The feeding area will allow visitor to have a close encounter with the giraffes and the project will add a high yield activity to the region’s tourism offering. | $48,600 | |
RJ&BD Watson | Renovation of the Ferneaux Tavern on Flinders Island. The project will provide opportunities to view the surrounding picturesque islands of the Furneaux Group and aims to improve the quality of offering for visitors to the island. | $47,350 | |
Katoomba Scenic Railway | Engagement of an art and sculpture industry installation team for ‘Sculpture At Scenic World’ in the Blue Mountains. ‘Sculpture At Scenic World’ will attract new visitors, encourage extended stays and re-visitation to the region. Sculpture at Scenic World is also designed to enhance relationships between the community and local government. | $46,800 | |
Honeycomb Valley | Installation of a tasting centre, bee hives, plants and landscaping at The Australian Native Bee Sanctuary & Honey Tasting Bar at Honeycomb Valley Farm. This initiative will deliver benefits including social, environmental, expanded employment opportunities, increased investment within the regional economy and the creation of Australia’s first native bee sanctuary. | $46,000 | |
Middle Creek Vineyard | Construction of a combined tasting room and gallery at Pyren Vineyard, Warrenmang. As well as showcasing Pyren Vineyard’s locally made wines, the venue will provide a forum for exhibiting the work of contemporary artists, with a focus on those from the region. The project will compliment and broaden the touring experience for visitors to the immediate local area, which is currently predominantly to tasting rooms. | $45,736 | |
Clarence Valley Council | Consulting services to develop skills and capacity building at Clarence BOOST. Clarence BOOST is boot camp for our tourism community – operators, stakeholders, agencies and residents. The project aims to help the Clarence tourism community to play its part in building a sustainable regional tourism future. | $44,000 | |
Coffs Harbour City Council | Development of a plan to submit a Development Application for the Café and interpretative centre at The Bruxner Park / Ulidarra Ecotourism project. The plan will propose a number of natural and cultural infrastructure initiatives (proposed walking / cycle trails, interpretive centre and café, lookout upgrades, viewing platform, picnic areas and interpretive signage. | $44,000 | |
Alice Dreaming | Construction of a cultural venue in Alice Springs .The project will provide a cultural activity venue; provide a venue for wildlife displays and interaction; develop a venue for local indigenous musicians; encourage private investment; improve the quality of the backpacker hostel, and; provides a new night time experience for all backpackers in Alice Springs. | $43,491 | |
Cartoscope | Development, publication and distribution of a free geo-tourism map of NSW, locating and describing significant geological sites throughout the state. An associated website, geomaps.com.au, will carry additional information on these geological sites. The map will encourage visitation and exploration of regional areas all over NSW from a high yield low impact market. | $42,574 | |
Skyrail | Business and marketing feasibility study for the establishment of the historic Barron Gorge tramway The indigenous involvement in the project in operation and interpretation and as a potential joint venture partner provides an opportunity for enhanced indigenous involvement in a successful tourism venture. | $41,000 | |
Hot Shots Paintball Skirmish | Construction of 3 paintball playing fields at Hot Shots Paintball Skirmish in Victoria’s Geelong region. This project will create new game features and an immersive entertainment experience of an international standard that will help the region to attract visitors. | $40,150 | |
James Cook University | Provision of a research officer, consultation and workshops regarding swim-with-dwarf minke whales tourism industry in Far North Queensland. The feasibility of additional value-adding regional attractions (e.g. a minke whale festival) will be evaluated to enhance regional economic benefits of this internationally significant wildlife tourism experience | $40,000 | |
Lady Elliot Island | Trail construction, infrastructure and development of facts sheets at Lady Elliot Island Exploration HQ and Adventure Trail Project. It will assist in promoting LEI and the GBR as a ‘must see’ destination to the domestic and global markets and attract the increasing green, nature, eco and special interest traveller. It will also increase tourism in regional areas that connect to LEI. | $39,700 | |
Lismore City Council | Feasibility study, planning and costings for Stage 1 of the Nimbin Walking Track Scoping Plan. The Nimbin Walking Track is a 4 stage tourist experience planned in the village of Nimbin and its immediate surrounds. It is envisaged this project will deliver to the Northern Rivers Tourism Industry a highly marketable product, with opportunities for education and skills development, increased visitor spend and a stimulation of private tourism investment. | $39,500 | |
Te Arani
| Completion of a feasibility study to test new customised, translated, self guided audio tours that are delivered digitally to visitors from a database. The content will be provided in English and also in other languages which will cater to the emerging markets such as China. | $37,518 | |
Langmeil | Refurbishment of a pioneer ironstone cottage at the Langmeil Winery, based around the 1843 pioneering village of Langmeil. This project will provide unique accommodation option within this carefully restored village which will benefit the wider region. | $36,000 | |
Mount Majura Wines (ACT) | Landscape and plant a ‘Terroir Gardens’ complementing the Cellar Door where wines of terroir (expressing the unique features of the vineyard site) are tasted. The Gardens will be marketed as a new visitor experience, complementing not only the Cellar Door but also other garden attractions in Canberra such as Australian National Botanic Gardens, Floriade and the National Arboretum. | $35,000 | |
Tranquilles Bed and Breakfast, Café and Gallery | Expansion of the kitchen facilities and offering at Tranquilles Bed and Breakfast in Tasmania’s North West region. This project will enable cooking classes run by local chefs and culinary weekends to be offered to visitors. It will also engage visitors with the fresh produce available in the region. | $35,000 | |
Capricorn Tourism and Economic Development | Feasibility study to considering possible links between the local food production area and tourism in Rockhampton. The project will deliver a comprehensive report that will be made available online on the options for sustainable local food supply and the economic benefits of local fresh food tourism and associated events. | $33,960 | |
Discovery Centre
| Provision of audio visual guide units in multiple languages at the Daintree Discovery Centre, Cow Bay. The project increase the number of units to cater for a wider range of visitor interests and will enrich the visitor experience by allowing DDC to offer guided tours in Chinese, introduce an Aboriginal tour, develop an interactive children’s cassowary conservation audio tour. | $30,500 | |
Walhalla Board of Management Incorporated | Construction of outdoor facilities and displays at the historic Walhalla Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine at Walhalla in Victoria. This project will provide undercover seating and accessible bathroom facilities together with refurbishment and additional display modules, static mine displays and AV concepts for the visitors to one of two remaining accessible Gold Mines open for Tourism within Victoria. | $30,140 | |
Sydney Theatre Company | Scope and plan for the development and refurbishment of the Sydney Theatre Company bar at The Wharf, Sydney. With its unique position on Sydney harbour, it is envisaged the new theatre bar will be a unique space for theatre patrons to mix before and after performances and will stage live music, play and poetry readings etc. for the benefit of the local community and visitors. | $29,000 | |
Australia Nature Tours | Development of Voluntourism Opportunities in Tropical North Queensland. The project will support tourism, community and conservation collaboration to deliver economic growth through TNQ. Voluntourism will increase the number of domestic and international visitors to TNQ, extend their stay and spend in the region, while supporting positive environmental and conservation outcomes. | $27,500 | |
Seppeltsfield Wines | Development of a Tourism Master Plan for Seppeltsfield Estate in South Australia’s Barossa region. This plan aims to provide key information and data to facilitate sound investment in tourism and hospitality economic development opportunities at Seppeltsfield Estate. | $27,500 | |
Townsville City Council | Development of The Nelly Bay Harbour Gateway Precinct Master Plan. This Master Plan will guide the establishment of new tourism enterprises and sustainability attractions on the world heritage listed Magnetic Island, thereby strengthening visitor appeal and activity levels on this significant north Queensland tourist destinations. | $25,000 | |
Shire of Coorow | Development of a Tourism Development Plan and delivery of a community survey and workshop for the Wildflower Country, Western Australia. The key aspect of the project is the five year tourism development plan which will identify methods for the consortium to develop the Wildflower Country tourism routes to link regional destinations and support industry growth and prosperity. | $22,350 | |
Cumnock & District Progress Association | Construction of 4 large “Animals on Bikes” village sculptures at the “Paddock Art” sculpture tourist trail from Molong-Cumnock-Yeoval-Dubbo. This unique creative project will capture any travellers’ imagination, promote local tourist operators, showcase rural creativity and encapsulate the spirit of regional NSW. | $20,500 | |
Wellington Council | Install an interactive LED system to replace the current incandescent system at the Cathedral Cave at Wellington. This project will improve the experience of visitors while limiting the environmental impacts caused by lighting the cave chambers. | $20,000 | |
Cessnock City Council | Production of a GPS multi-media application for use on The Great North Road, Cessnock. It will integrate an original script, period music and special effects to evoke the period in which the road the person is driving over was built between 1826 and 1836 | $20,000 | |
Muswellbrook Shire Council | Feasibility study identifying ecotourism opportunities in (northern) Wollemi National Park area. The project will identify opportunities for hikers, day trippers, small tour groups, education and Indigenous tourism. The study will explore interpretation, signage, access and managing potential tourism impacts. | $20,000 | |
Taylor Industries | Construction of a purpose built observatory to support the ‘Gems by Day, Jewels by Night’ at the Gemfields, Central Queensland. Combining the existing attractions of the Sapphire Gemfields with a night time product will result in a more diverse experience for tourists. This project aims to increase visitor yield and length of stay to the Sapphire Gemfields and Central Queensland regions. | $20,000 | |
Koorie Heritage Trust Incl. | Upgrade of information booths to state of the art equipment at the Koorie Heritage Trust Cultural Centre in Melbourne. It holds an extensive collection of Aboriginal artefacts and artwork and this project will provide a much needed refurbishment for the displays. | $20,000 | |
Parkes Shire Council | Feasibility Study to define a plan for future development of the Henry Parkes Centre, Parkes. The study will analyse demand for an interactive, mining interpretive centre and recommendations to develop the Henry Parkes Centre beyond its current capacity for the future. | $18,500 | |
Lake Mountain Alpine Resort | A feasibility study and design framework for a proposed Lake Mountain to Marysville mountain bike trail and a complimentary trail network at Lake Mountain in southern Victoria. This project will examine the issue around building more quality Mountain biking trails attracting hundreds of riders to the Marysville Triangle area which is recovering following the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires. | $18,491 | |
City of Wodonga | Develop a business strategy for the Bonegilla Migrant Experience heritage and cultural tourism site. This project will to further extend the visitor experience as a viable education, recreation and tourist attraction to give the site long term security and independence to this important site. | $17,600 | |
Djabugay Native Title Aboriginal Corporation | The project will establish walking tracks and a small indigenous village in a rainforest area adjacent to Skyrail Cableway that is part of the Traditional Lands of the Djabugay People. The visitor will experience unique insight of how Djabugay People lived and used the rainforest. When established, Djabugay will train tour guides and operate a 30 minutes rainforest tours that can be accessed through Skyrail and will be sold as an optional activity to the Skyrail visitors. | $17,500 | |
Kamilaroi Highway Group | Feasibility study to identify and evaluate opportunities for the development of Aboriginal and Nature-based products, experiences and businesses along the Kamilaroi Highway. The Kamilaroi Highway Group aim is to diversify and strengthen the tourism product and experiences along the Kamilaroi Highway touring route. | $16,500 | |
Karumba Progress Association | Feasibility study on development of future wet or ‘green’ season tourism in Karumba and adjacent areas of the Gulf of Carpentaria. The project will provide information and a ‘road map’ to address issues and establish a sound basis for new and expanded tourism initiatives particularly transport, land/air/water based tours, experiences and activities. | $16,500 | |
The Australian Sugar Industry Museum Incorporated | Construction of an interpretative centre inside the Australian Sugar Industry Museum at Mourilyan, Cassowary Coast Area of Queensland. This project will allow the establishment of a interpretative centre that will provide information about the growing of sugar cane and the processes to manufacture crystal sugar allowing visitors to develop an understanding of one of the agricultural industries that dominates the landscape in Queensland | $16,500 | |
WAITOC Association Inc. | Feasibility Study into the design and establishment of an Indigenous Tourism Accreditation module for potential implementation within the National Tourism Accreditation Framework (NTAF). Options will be presented with an outcome to recommend the design, establishment and implementation of a new indigenous tourism accreditation module/program, or update a current program to address identified stakeholder needs. | $16,500 | |
WAITOC Association Inc. | Feasibility study of demand for Indigenous cultural experiences and product by the Perth tourism industry and future connection between the owners of Aboriginal experiences and products with the Perth region tourism industry. | $16,500 | |
City of Cockburn | Feasibility study to consider the need and viability for an Aboriginal Cultural and Visitors Centre in Cockburn, Western Australia. This project will also consult with stakeholders regarding a preferred site and viable operational models and list of requirements for a proposed facility that if build would bring the rich and unique Aboriginal stories and sites to the visitors to this region. | $15,000 | |
Total | $8,473,891 |
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